Athletic Club vs Manchester United

Manchester United travel to Spain tonight to face Athletic Club in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final, aiming to keep their European ambitions alive amid a challenging domestic season.

United's journey to the semi-finals was marked by a dramatic extra-time victory over Lyon, where they overturned a deficit to win 7-6 on aggregate. Harry Maguire's decisive header in the dying moments secured their place in the last four. 

Athletic Club, on the other hand, secured their semi-final spot with a 2-0 aggregate win over Rangers. Goals from Oihan Sancet and Nico Williams ensured their progression.

This encounter marks the first competitive meeting between the two clubs since the 2011-12 Europa League round of 16, where Athletic emerged victorious in both legs.

Under manager Rubén Amorim, United have struggled domestically, currently sitting 14th in the Premier League. Amorim acknowledges that winning the Europa League would be a significant achievement but emphasizes the need for broader improvements within the club. 

Athletic Club are enjoying a strong season, currently fourth in La Liga, and boast an impressive home record in the Europa League, having won all their matches at San Mamés. 

A key player to watch is Nico Williams, who has been instrumental in Athletic's European campaign with five goals. His pace and creativity on the wing pose a significant threat to United's defense. 

The match kicks off at 8 PM Irish time and will be broadcast on Premier Sports 1 in Ireland and TNT Sports 1 in the UK. 

With the final set to be held at San Mamés, Athletic Club are highly motivated to secure a home final. United, meanwhile, will look to leverage their European form to overcome their domestic struggles.